Flipped Classrooms, Blended Learning & Virtual Schools

Indiana is trying to get its virtual schools under control. The abysmal track record of a couple of virtual school operators in the state have called into question the Indiana State Board of Education's oversight of virtual schools, so lawmakers acted.

Some of the pathways will lead to certification or other industry licensing for the students; others will reduce the number of credits needed for students to earn an associate's degree or a bachelor's degree.

The importance of dual enrollment is two-fold, researchers Azim Shivji and Sandra Wilson of Abt Associates mentioned. First, it's "promoted as a means to help students prepare and demonstrate their readiness for the rigors of college coursework"; and second, if the courses are transferable, they can help students and their families reduce the cost of college.

As we are only beginning to discover the true potential of online learning, providers have a responsibility to ensure that it continues to evolve to best meet the needs of every student who chooses it.

YouTube, a Google company, has announced plans to invest $20 million in YouTube Learning, an initiative hinted at during the summer. The goal: "to support education-focused creators and expert organizations that create and curate high-quality learning content on the video site."

Discovery Education is hosting a free virtual field trip to a nuclear power plant Oct. 15, cosponsored with the Center for Nuclear Science and Technology Information. The event takes place between 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Eastern time.

Two decades after its founding, a virtual school in Michigan legislated into existence faces an expansion of its mandate to include research. Michigan Virtual has long delivered courses to middle and high school students. Now, the organization might also become a hub for online educational experimentation.

Whitepapers

Finding student success through technology takes a lot of factors lining up just right. But a good place to start is setting up classroom zones that fit the learning needs of the moment and letting students pivot through the day. Download this informative white paper to learn more.
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